With summer less than a month away, it’s the perfect time to squeeze in one more spring road trip to one of the province’s many charming small towns before busy season begins!
With romantic tree-lined streets to wander, quaint local shops and cafes, these destinations will transport you to a world away from Toronto’s concrete jungle.
Here are five dreamy small towns in Ontario to visit this spring:
1. Niagara-on-the-Lake
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped on set of a Hallmark film at Niagara-on-the-Lake, which comes alive with colour in the spring. Stroll down tulip-lined streets and window shop at the many boutiques, or book a wine tour of a nearby winery.
There is also several notable landmarks found along Queen Street to see, including the Cenotaph / Clock Tower built in 1920 or the Royal George Theatre which has entertained visitors since 1915.
2. Port Perry
Just an hour northeast of Toronto, Port Perry is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Scugog that’s beloved for its blend of small-town heritage, scenic waterfront, and vibrant local culture. Stop by the Port Perry Lakefront Farmer’s Market on a Saturday for fresh local produce, artisanal meats, baked goods, and handmade crafts beside one of Canada’s oldest grain mills, or stroll the streets of the historic downtown lined with boutique shopping, quaint cafés, and lively ice cream shops.
In June, don’t miss special events like the Dragon Boat Festival on June 14 or the high-energy Roar by the Shores classic car show on June 22. A visit won’t be complete without a walk by the water, which is best absorbed from Palmer Park and the Lake Scugog waterfront – the perfect place to watch the sunset.
3. Stratford
Also known as Canada’s Arts Town, Stratford is your destination for festivals, trails, music and a vibrant arts scene. The annual Stratford Festival opens every April, where you can catch a number of plays.
Downtown Stratford has a uniquely European feel, with Victorian lamp posts, old heritage buildings, art galleries, boutiques, and more. Explore the city’s stunning gardens once they bloom in the spring, or admire public art in Allen’s Alley.
4. Elora
Once called “Ontario’s most beautiful village” by one of the Group of Seven painters A.J. Casson, Elora is a perfect getaway for outdoor lovers. Hike or zipline through the breathtaking Elora Gorge, bike on the 47-kilometre Elora Cataract Trailway, and in the warmer months, you can even tube down the Grand River.
After your adventures, head to the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa to get pampered with a massage or treatment, or marvel at downtown’s stunning 19th century architecture. There are also a ton of great restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat at.
5. Dundas
This former community in Hamilton is known as “The Valley Town”, found just over an hour from Toronto. Home to many amazing hiking trails, you’ll also find several waterfalls here, including Websters and Tews Falls.
Downtown Dundas is also full of historic nostalgia, with old buildings housing adorable boutiques, specialty shops, coffeeshops, and restaurants.